Peach Iced Tea is a light, fruity, and irresistibly refreshing drink that captures the juicy sweetness of ripe peaches in every sip. It’s the perfect way to cool down on hot days or to serve at picnics, gatherings, or just as a treat for myself.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how this tea comes together without needing any complicated steps. The peaches add a naturally sweet and floral flavor that blends so well with the tea. It’s simple, clean, and made with real ingredients. I can control how sweet or mild I want it, and it tastes even better after chilling. Every glass feels like a cool, peachy breeze on a summer afternoon.
Ingredients
(Here's a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Fresh ripe peaches, sliced
- Granulated sugar
- Cold water
- Tea bags
- Lemon juice (optional)
- Ice cubes
Directions
- I start by mixing sliced peaches and sugar in a bowl, then covering and placing it in the fridge for 24 to 48 hours. This creates a rich, peachy syrup as the fruit breaks down and releases its juices.
- In a separate container of cold water, I add tea bags and let them sit in the fridge for several hours to gently develop flavor.
- Once both the syrup and tea are ready, I strain the peach syrup into the tea and stir to combine. I add a touch of lemon juice if I want a bit of brightness.
- I pour the mixture into a pitcher, chill it thoroughly, and serve over ice with peach slices for a beautiful finish.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 6 to 8 servings. I spend around 10 minutes preparing everything, with extra time for the peaches and tea to sit and develop their full flavor—about 24 to 48 hours for the syrup and 6 to 8 hours for the tea.
Variations
- I sometimes toss in strawberries or blueberries for added fruit flavor.
- Mint leaves give the tea a cool, crisp twist when I want something extra refreshing.
- I use green tea for a lighter, more delicate profile.
- A splash of sparkling water at serving time gives it a fun fizz.
- I adjust the sugar to make it as sweet or mild as I prefer.
Storage/Reheating
I store the tea in a sealed pitcher in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Before pouring, I stir it well to mix any settled fruit or flavor. I always serve it chilled over fresh ice and never need to heat it.
FAQs
Can I use frozen peaches?
Yes, thawed frozen peaches work just as well. I let them sit with sugar the same way I do with fresh ones.
What kind of tea should I use?
I like using black tea for a bold flavor, but green or flavored teas can work too depending on what I’m in the mood for.
Do I have to peel the peaches?
Not at all. I leave the skin on for extra color and texture, but peeling is an option if I want a smoother syrup.
How sweet is the final drink?
It’s lightly sweet, and I always taste and adjust before serving. I can add more syrup or lemon depending on my preference.
Can I prepare it in advance?
Yes, and I often do. It stores beautifully in the fridge, and the flavors deepen as it chills.
Conclusion
Peach Iced Tea is a fruity, cool, and easy drink that feels like a small luxury on a warm day. It’s simple to make, easy to customize, and always hits the spot. Whether I’m making it for guests or just relaxing on my own, it never fails to impress with its fresh, juicy taste.
Peach Iced Tea
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 24 to 48 hours (including steeping time)
- Yield: 6 to 8 servings
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
Peach Iced Tea is a refreshing and fruity drink that blends the natural sweetness of peaches with chilled tea, perfect for hot days or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
- 3-4 fresh ripe peaches, sliced
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 4 cups cold water (for tea)
- 4-6 tea bags (black or green)
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (optional)
- Ice cubes, as needed
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix sliced peaches and granulated sugar. Cover and refrigerate for 24 to 48 hours to let the peaches release their juices and form a syrup.
- In a separate container, add tea bags to cold water and refrigerate for 6 to 8 hours to allow flavor to develop.
- Strain the peach syrup into the brewed tea and stir to combine. Add lemon juice if desired.
- Pour the peach tea into a pitcher, chill thoroughly, and serve over ice with additional peach slices if desired.
Notes
- Frozen peaches can be used as a substitute for fresh ones—just thaw before using.
- Leave the peach skins on for added color and flavor.
- Adjust the sugar amount to suit your taste preferences.
- Store in the refrigerator and stir before serving to mix settled flavors.
- Mint, berries, or sparkling water can be added for variations.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass (approx. 8 oz)
- Calories: 60
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 2mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
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